The recommended staffing ratios can vary depending on the type of unit and the patient population. For example, the American Nurses Association (ANA) suggests a ratio of 1:1 or 1:2 in intensive care units (ICUs), while medical-surgical units may have ratios of 1:4 or 1:5. In long-term care settings, the ratios may differ even more, often being higher due to the lower acuity of patients.
